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Chiques Creek Watershed Plan and Environmental Document
Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 1 of 36 June 23, 2020
Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications
Planning Services
Watershed Plan-Environmental Document
General
This Technical Specification describes the details and requirements of the Phases and subsidiary
items described in the statement of work (SOW).
Deliverable items for each Phase and subsidiary items are due according to Attachment 3 - Schedule
of Work and Timelines.
Engineering surveys, engineering hydrologic and hydraulic analyses, and geologic activities must be
performed in accordance with NRCS-Pennsylvania (NRCS-PA), Pennsylvania Department of
Environmental Protection (PADEP), and OSHA standards. The A-E must certify that all surveys and
analyses meet the required criteria.
All activities shall comply with the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Act of 1954 (Public
Law 83-566) as amended by the Small Watershed Rehabilitation Amendments of 2000 (Section 313
of Public Law 106-472), the NRCS National Watershed Program Manual (NWPM), and all other and
all other Federal, State, and Local laws and regulations.
Except for existing effective Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) using an older vertical datum, all
modeling shall mapping shall use Pennsylvania State Plane NAD83 datum US feet horizontal
coordinates and NAVD88 US feet vertical datum. All map sheets and tables showing real world
elevations shall include the datum and coordinate system used. All models shall make note of the
elevation datum used in the model descriptions.
The deliverable items for each Phase and subsidiary items may be portions of the Plan-ED or stand-
alone items as part of the Project Folder as described. For Phases II and III deliverables that are
portions of the Plan-ED, draft versions shall be submitted to SLO and NRCS-PA for review and
comment.
Reference Material
Upon request by the A-E, the CO will furnish the following NRCS reference materials as needed for
the prosecution of the work.
The following NRCS reference materials are available through the internet, except as otherwise
noted, at http://directives.sc.egov.usda.gov/, and
http://www.economics.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/technotes/index.html.
Non-NRCS documents will be obtained by the A-E. NOTE: This is not an all-inclusive list. Other
reference information may be necessary as deemed appropriate.
1. NRCS National Engineering Manual (NEM).
2. NRCS National Engineering Handbook (NEH), Parts 628, 630, 631, 633, 636, 641, 642, 650,
653, and 654 and Sections 3, 5, 6, 8, 11, and 14.
Chiques Creek Watershed Plan and Environmental Document
Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 2 of 36 June 23, 2020
3. National Operation and Maintenance Manual
4. NRCS National Watershed Program Manual (NWPM)
5. NRCS National Watershed Program Handbook (NWPH)
6. NRCS National Planning Procedures Handbook (NPPH)
7. NRCS National Environmental Compliance Handbook (NECH)
8. Principles and Guidelines for Water Resource Projects, 1983
9. Principles and Requirements for Federal Investments in Water Resources, Chapters I -
Principles and Chapter II – Requirements (PR&G), March 2013
10. Principles and Requirements for Federal Investments in Water Resources, Chapter III -
Interagency Guidelines (PR&G), December 2014
11. USDA Guidance for Conducting Analyses Under the Principles, Requirements, and Guidelines
for Water and Land Related Resources Implementation Studies and Federal Water Resource
Investments, DM 9500-013
12. NRCS Technical Releases:
TR 5 Structural Design of Underground Conduits
TR17 Geologic Investigation for Watershed Planning
TR 18 Computation of Joint Extensibility Requirements
TR 20 Computer Program for Project Formulation Hydrology *
TR 25 Design of Open Channels
TR 26 The Use of Soils Containing More Than 5 Percent Rock Larger Than the Number 4
Sieve
TR 50 Design of Rectangular Structural Channels
TR 55 Urban Hydrology for Small Watersheds *
TR 65 Procedure to Establish Priorities in Landscape Architecture
TR 67 Reinforced Concrete Strength Design
13. NRCS Design Notes
DN 10 Special Designs of Single Cell Rectangular Conduits
DN 15 Submerged Weir Flow
DN 24 Guide for the Use of Geotextiles
14. NRCS Soil Mechanics Notes
SMN 6 Glossary, Symbols, Abbreviations and Conversion Factors *
SMN 8 Soil Mechanics Testing Standards
15. The following materials, and other materials not listed but pertinent to the design, shall be
obtained by the A-E, as necessary.
a. American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) technical standards.
b. U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
EM 1110-2-1411 Standard Project Flood Determinations
Chiques Creek Watershed Plan and Environmental Document
Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 3 of 36 June 23, 2020
EM 1110-2-1902 Slope Stability
EM 1110-2-1906 Laboratory Soils Testing
EM 1110-2-2200 Gravity Dam Design, June 30, 1995
c. American Concrete Institute (ACI) - several references are applicable, a few are listed
below
318-Current – Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete and Commentary
350-Current – Code Requirements for Environmental Engineering Concrete Structures
and Commentary
d. American Institute of Steel Construction, 15th Edition Structural Steel Manual
e. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and
Other Structures, current edition
f. International Code Council, Incorporated (ICC), International Building Code, current
edition
g. USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
16. Hydrologic and Hydraulic Computer Models (use most current version): Hydrology: NRCS-
Win TR20; NRCS-Win TR55; NRCS-SITES; HEC HMS Stream Hydraulics; US Army Corps of
Engineers-HEC RAS Dam Breach Analysis; US Army Corps of Engineers-HEC1; NRCS TR 60;
NRCS TR 66
17. NRCS Technical Notes (TN): Design Notes 6, 8, and 24
18. NRCS National Bulletin 190-13-11, Release of Revised Form CPA-52, “Environmental
Evaluation Worksheet”
19. NRCS National Bulletin 450-20-1, TCH-Field Office Technical Guide Resource Concerns and
Planning Criteria List and Update
20. Pennsylvania NRCS Technical Guide Notice 274, Revised National Resource Concerns and
Planning Criteria and Revised NRCS-CPA-52 Environmental Evaluation.
Quality of Work
A-E will follow his/her Quality Assurance/Quality Control Plan (QA/QC) for the Project. Quality of
work will be as described in the statement of work (SOW) for this project.
Reviews and Approvals
Review and approval of submittals will be as described in the SOW for this project.
Description of Work
For the purpose of contract administration and payments, the work is divided into the following
eight (8) Phases and related subsidiary items:
1-1 Plan of Work
I. Scope
Item 1-1 of the work must consist of performing the following items:
A. Preparing a comprehensive plan of work defining the project goals and priorities
Chiques Creek Watershed Plan and Environmental Document
Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 4 of 36 June 23, 2020
B. A list of the tasks to be performed andtheir products
C. The estimated staff hours and associated cost of performing each task
D. The schedule for completing each task
The Plan of Work shown in the National Watershed Program Handbook (NWPH) 606.13 – Plan
of Work can be used as a reference.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. Conference #1, Phase 1, Item 1-1, Plan of Work
Timing – After the task order is issued for the project.
Location – Teleconference
Topics – Discuss Plan of Work assignments and allocation of hours.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 1-1, Plan of Work: The A-E will provide electronic files to the CO as outlined in Section L -
FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. The CO will furnish review comments on the initial
plan of work to the A-E within 14 days of receiving the document. The A-E must make all
necessary corrections to the work and will document the responses and actions taken as a result
of the CO’s review comments. The documented responses must be submitted with the final
submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of Item 1-1 will be made by the CO after all corrections are made
and all required material has been submitted.
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Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 5 of 36 June 23, 2020
1-2 Gather background data and develop a list of interested parties
I. Scope
The A-E will review available data provided by SLO as well as partners and other agencies to
assist in the development of the Plan of Work and Plan-ED. Prepare a summary report that
summarizes findings and initially identifies potential project sites for further field examination
during Phase 3.
A. Perform a record search of files of the USDA-NRCS, the sponsor, Pennsylvania Department
of Environmental Protection, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, local floodplain
administrator, FEMA, and others as required for information relevant to planning to include:
1. best available base map/LiDAR data
2. hydrologic and hydraulic files, design files, geology and geotechnical files,
3. project records and hydraulic models for potentially impacted bridges and culverts
4. Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), Letters of Map Revision (LOMRs), Conditional
Letters of Map Revision (CLOMRs), Letters of Map Amendment (LOMAs) shall be
obtained from FEMA’s Map Service Center for upstream and downstream areas
anticipated to be impacted by the project.
5. Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) and the hydraulic models used in the FISs shall be
obtained from FEMA if available for those same areas.
B. Identification of Resource Problems and Opportunities (Affected Environment)
The work may include, but is not limited to, identifying watershed problems and
opportunities for existing and future conditions. Provide data showing the magnitude,
extent, duration and frequency of the natural resource problems for the watershed that are
within the project scope. Determine problems related to the current condition relating to
flooding and legacy sediment. Problems may include such items as flood damages to
homes, businesses, roads, bridges and other land and water quality or other issues. This
helps form the basis for the Purpose and Need for Federal Action.
C. Deliverable items include maps (as-necessary), testing results and conclusions, calculations,
and the written analyses for the appropriate sections of the Plan-Environmental Document.
Electronic input and output files in their native formats for all models shall be delivered as
part of the Project Folder.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO and COR for the subject work must be in accordance with
Section G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. Conference #2, Phase 1, Item 1-2, Gather background data and develop a list of interested
parties – findings.
Timing – After the background data report is completed and the list for consultation is
compiled.
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Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 6 of 36 June 23, 2020
Location – Teleconference.
Topics – Findings from the report and the list of consultees.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 1-2, Gather background data and develop a list of interested parties: The A-E will provide
electronic files to the CO as outlined in Section L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA.
Comments from SLO AND USDA-NRCS staff will be provided to the CO in as timely a fashion as
possible. The CO will subsequently furnish all review comments on the report to the A-E within
14 days of receiving the document.
The A-E must make all necessary corrections to the work and will document the responses and
actions taken as a result of the CO’s review comments. The documented responses must be
submitted with the final submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of item report will be made by the CO after all corrections are
made and all required material has been submitted.
The A-E will provide a report and a mailing address list, along with a list of email addresses, for
the list of interested parties. A separate list for persons and agencies that should be consulted
will also be provided to the CO.
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Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 7 of 36 June 23, 2020
1-3 Public Participation Plan
I. Scope
The public participation plan (PPP) should guide how input from watershed stakeholders is
obtained and focus the Plan-ED on the most relevant issues.
A public participation plan includes an outline of the planning or decision-making process and
identifies stages when the public is to be invited to participate. Public participation should
include meetings, workshops, tours, or open houses, as appropriate. Meetings shall adhere to
the Commonwealth’s open meeting laws. The PPP also includes notations of public hearings
required by others. Implementation of the public participation plan should be documented and
will become a part of the required reviewable record.
II. Development of the Public Participation Plan
A. Public participation during this subsidiary item will be conducted in accordance with an
approved PPP and will include early opportunities for public and agency input through
scoping.
B. Coordination with other Federal, State, or Tribal Governments shall be conducted during
development of the Plan-ED. The A-E shall draft letters of invitation for SLO AND USDA-
NRCS signature to agencies that have specific expertise or jurisdiction by law (such as
permitting authority) to be cooperating agencies in the planning process and preparation of
the NEPA document. Those agencies will likely include US Fish and Wildlife, the US Army
Corps of Engineers (USACE), the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Pennsylvania
Department of Environmental Protection, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation,
Susquehanna River Basin Commission, Department of Conservation of Natural Resources,
Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, Lancaster County Commissioners, Lancaster County
Emergency Management Agency, Lancaster County Planning Commission, Lebanon County
Commissioners, Lebanon County Emergency Management Agency, Lebanon County
Planning Commission, and affected local floodplain zoning administrators.
Public meetings will be coordinated with the Sponsor and USDA-NRCS and will be publicized
in accordance with USDA-NRCS policy and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Open
Meeting Laws. The Sponsor shall be the official lead for general public participation
meetings on the project. USDA-NRCS must officially be the lead for any public scoping
meetings on the Draft and Final Plan-Environmental Document. The Contractor shall
organize, manage, and take minutes of all such meetings, with assistance from the SLO AND
USDA-NRCS. The contractor shall provide handouts and visual aids (posters, project area
maps, wall charts, etc.) of pertinent information. SLO AND USDA-NRCS will ensure that a
laptop, projector, and screen are available for use in meeting room.
Results of public participation will be used to develop the scope of environmental
document. Scoping will be used to identify the significant issues to be analyzed in detail and
to eliminate from detailed study the issues that are not significant. Public participation
results will be documented and summarized in the “Consultation, Coordination and Public
Participation” sections of the Plan-ED.
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A PPP will be developed, including development of a comprehensive mailing list of agencies,
groups and individual stakeholders, in consultation with the SLO and USDA-NRCS. The list
should include mailing information as well as points of contact email addresses. The plan
will outline agency, State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and Tribal consultations.
C. The PPP Plan must note the inclusion of affected Environmental Justice Communities. The
PPP will conform to or be equivalent to Attachment 4 – Sample Public Participation Plan.
Based on the scoping process, there may need to be additional public engagement for any
affected Environmental Justice Community or Tribal Government.
III. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with
Section G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. Conference #3, Phase 1, Item 1-3, Public Participation Plan.
Timing – After the Plan of Work is accepted.
Location – Teleconference.
Topics – Discuss initial Public Participation Plan.
B. Conference #4, Phase 1, Item 1-3, Public Participation Plan – Technical entities, other
participating agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Timing – After the Public Participation Plan is accepted.
Location – At site.
A-E Role – USDA-NRCS will lead the conference with the A-E and support from Lancaster
County Conservation District. The A-E is responsible for organizing the meeting,
managing the meeting, and taking minutes during the meeting.
Topics – Discuss the Public Participation Plan, the proposed project objectives, outline of the
planning process and the role of technical entities, other participating agencies and non-
governmental organizations (NGOs), begin scoping process.
C. Conference #5, Phase 1, Item 1-3 Public Participation Plan – Initial Public Meeting.
Timing – After Conference #4.
Location – At site.
A-E Role – Lancaster County Conservation District, and USDA-NRCS will lead the conference
with the A-E. The A-E is responsible for organizing the meeting, managing the meeting,
and taking minutes during the meeting.
Topics – Discuss the Public Participation Plan, the proposed project objectives, outline of the
planning process and the role of public participants begin scoping process. Comments
by the public will become part of the official record.
D. Conference #12, Phase 6, Item 1-3, Public Participation Plan – Evaluate Alternatives
Meeting.
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Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 9 of 36 June 23, 2020
Timing – After alternatives have been formulated, at the end of Phase 6.
Location – At site.
A-E Role –SLO and USDA-NRCS will lead the conference with the A-E. The A-E is responsible
for organizing the meeting, managing the meeting, and taking minutes.
Topics – Discuss the identified alternatives to be examined and effects of each alternative.
IV. Review and acceptance of work
Item 1-3, Public Participation Plan: The A-E will provide electronic files to the CO as outlined in
Section L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. The Comprehensive Mailing List shall
be prepared in Microsoft Excel as well as Microsoft Word.
The CO will furnish review comments on the public participation plan to the A-E within 14 days
of receiving the document. The A-E must make all necessary corrections to the work and will
document the responses and actions taken as a result of the CO’s review comments. The
documented responses must be submitted with the final submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of Item public participation plan will be made by the CO after all
corrections are made and all required material has been submitted.
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Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 10 of 36 June 23, 2020
2-1 Document sponsor objectives, write purpose and need statement and write scope of plan.
I. Scope
The A-E will work with the sponsor to document the project objectives, write a purpose and
need statement and develop a scope for the plan that meets applicable USDA-NRCS, PR&G and
NEPA requirements.
A. This activity will be iterative throughout the planning process and will identify the Sponsor’s
objectives and assist the USDA-NRCS State Conservationist and USDA-NRCS-PA staff in
developing the Purpose and Need based on consultations with the Sponsor, local
jurisdictions, the public, and land users affected by the project. This activity will inform the
above stakeholders of the impacts to identified resource concerns resulting from potential
project alternatives developed during planning.
B. Deliverable items include written draft versions as items are completed or changes are
made; and the final version of the written portions for the appropriate sections of the Plan-
ED.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. Conference #8, Phase 2, Item 2-1, Document sponsor objectives, write purpose and need
statement and write scope of plan.
Timing – After the Item 1-3 report is accepted.
Location – At site or by teleconference.
Topics – Sponsors objectives, the purpose and need for the project and any parameters that
define the scope of the project.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 2-1, Document sponsor objectives, write purpose and need statement and write scope of
plan: The A-E will document the SLO’s objectives, write the purpose and needs statement and
develop a scope for the plan that is acceptable to the SLO and USDA-NRCS.
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Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 11 of 36 June 23, 2020
3-1 Perform field reconnaissance
I. Scope
The A-E will perform field reconnaissance to prepare a report that describes the conditions and
status of damage areas within the watershed as well as identified potential sites for projects
within the watershed. It is intended that this assessment will be mostly visual and non-intrusive.
A-E may recommend hand auger holes, test pits, and water sampling, if appropriate. The report
will also include a summary of findings and a conclusion/list of recommendations for any
potential projects.
Assessment of new sites should include a topographic survey of all areas that may be impacted
by a design of planned treatment measures associated with this Plan-ED. The report will also
include a summary of findings and a conclusion/list of recommendations for any potential
projects.
B. Perform a visual inspection of the watershed including all areas of open channel and conduit
flow. Document and evaluate the existing stream channels.
1. The Stream Channel and Floodplain - document existing conditions throughout the
watershed with notes, photographs and/or video. The A-E is to focus efforts on areas
preliminarily identified in previous studies and reports . The A-E is to offer opinions on
the cause(s) of any noticeable constrictions, the likelihood to occur, the likelihood to
continue, potential for negative impacts related to the issues, and potential remedial
treatments (if needed).
2. Engineering Surveying & LiDAR Topography
a. The work may include but is not limited to: conducting engineering field surveys
(cross sections, profiles, topography, features); magnetometer/GPR surveys; vertical
and horizontal control surveys; and hydrographic/bathymetric surveys, as needed.
Surveys may be required in a variety of terrain including but are not limited to:
rivers, creeks, cities, rural areas, wetlands, and uplands.
Detailed engineering survey of areas shall include all areas within the 500-year
floodplain of Chiques Creek and its tributaries. Below and above-ground utilities
shall be identified, as reasonable, using GIS data. Surveys to include access roads,
building locations, first floor elevations, potential retention/detention areas.
Surface features such as surface water, wetlands, cultural features, approximate
property lines, etc., shall also be included.
b. Topographic information shall be determined from the current LiDAR data for the
Chiques Creek watershed. Additional survey can be used to supplement the
currently available data. LiDAR/survey shall be such that profiles and cross section
can be derived as well as key elevations of structures within the floodplain. Also
obtain typical stream cross sections and configuration data at bridges and culverts
needed for developing hydraulic models.
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Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 12 of 36 June 23, 2020
c. For buildings, roads, water sources, utilities, burial sites, and historical sites that
may be affected by the proposed project, obtain the appropriate elevations to
determine compliance with NWPM 504.3.C.3 (Induced Flooding).
d. Use acquired survey data to prepare a topographic map of the flood plain and
potential project site(s).
e. Deliverable items include a narrative report of the site inspection(s) with
photographs and plotted LiDAR-generated cross sections and profiles that may later
be used to draft required information for the Affected Environment section and for
the Investigation and Analysis Report (Appendix D) of the Plan-EA, and a location
map of the studied areas, and text files of all surveyed points (if appropriate). The
maps shall be delivered as part of the project folder as paper drawings and pdf files
at a scale appropriate for 11” x 17” exhibits in the Plan-EA, as well as AutoCAD
drawings in dwg format including all points, surfaces and externally referenced files.
3. Sediment Survey
a. Using GIS, conduct a legacy sediment survey of the watershed including submerged
and aerated sediment and compute the current volume that could be reasonably
removed/stabilized.
b. Sample sediment at potential removal sites to determine gradation of material as
well as the presence/absence of heavy metals, chemicals, etc. that would affect
future use of material.
c. Estimate a future sediment rate using USDA-NRCS guidance and forecasted land use
in the watershed area over the projected project. Consultation with the USDA-NRCS
State Geologist may be required throughout this work item.
d. Deliverable items include a narrative report describing the methods, assumptions,
calculations and results of the sediment survey, maps (as-necessary), calculations,
and the written analyses for the appropriate sections of the Plan-ED. Electronic
input and output files in their native formats for all models shall be delivered as part
of the Project Folder.
C. Identification of Resource Problems and Opportunities (Affected Environment)
Update Affected Environment document produced in Phase 1-2 for acquired field
information. This may include, but is not limited to, identifying watershed problems and
opportunities for existing and future conditions. Provide data showing the magnitude,
extent, duration and frequency of the natural resource and flooding problems for the
watershed that are within the project scope. Determine problems related to the current
condition of flooding within the watershed. Problems may include such items as flood
damages to homes, businesses, roads, bridges and other land from water as well as
sediment, and water quality or other issues. This helps form the basis for the Purpose and
Need for Federal Action.
D. Deliverable items include maps (as-necessary), test results and conclusions, calculations,
and the written analyses for the appropriate sections of the Plan-ED. Electronic input and
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Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 13 of 36 June 23, 2020
output files in their native formats for all models shall be delivered as part of the Project
Folder.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. Conference #7, Phase 3, Item 3-1, Perform field reconnaissance – Findings.
Timing – After the reconnaissance and report is completed.
Location – Teleconference.
Topics – Findings from the report.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 3-1, Perform field reconnaissance: The A-E will provide electronic files to the CO as outlined
in Section L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. Comments from SLO staff will be
provided to the CO in as timely a fashion as possible. The CO will subsequently furnish all review
comments on the report to the A-E within 21 days of receiving the document.
The A-E must make all necessary corrections to the work and will document the responses and
actions taken as a result of the CO’s review comments. The documented responses must be
submitted with the final submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of item report will be made by the CO after all corrections are
made and all required material has been submitted.
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3-2 Resource Inventories and Watershed Assessment
I. Scope
The Resource Inventory and Watershed Assessment should identify pertinent environmental
information within the project area that may be impacted or affected by the implementation of
the remaining project measures.
The work may include, but is not limited to, conducting the resource inventories of the
watershed by collecting environmental information on the resources that could be impacted by
the project. Inventories will be adequate to establish ecological baseline conditions which are
linked to environmental laws, Executive Orders, Codified Federal Rules, scoping issues, and/or
USDA-NRCS policy. All study/inventory should be commensurate to the level of concern
associated with the resource. General descriptions of the various ecological resources will
normally suffice. For example, complete inventory of all common species of plants, fish, and or
invertebrates present is usually not needed or appropriate. This information will provide the
basis for forecasting project effects. Public/agency scoping sessions may result in additional
inventories. The types of resources to be considered can be found in the NWPM Part 501.24 B.
Results of the scoping process should be used to determine relevance:
• Erosion and sediment yield analysis for primary sources, such as ag, forest, etc., roads,
streambanks, and bedload
• Aquatic resources
• Water Quality
• Water Resources
A. Environmental (refer to NRCS-CPA-52)
1. Identify soils that are pertinent to the alternatives and create a map to be incorporated
into the Plan-ED. (This does not necessarily require on-site sampling of mapped soils.)
2. Using GIS, identify wetland types and approximate acres using the Cowardin system for
areas upstream and downstream of the dam site that may be impacted by any of the
alternatives identified in Phase II.
3. Conduct preliminary wetland determinations and delineations and develop maps for
wetlands that may be present and potentially impacted by the project. This may include
upstream and downstream areas, and areas potentially impacted by construction
activities. To the extent appropriate, off-site wetland determination methodologies
based on aerial photography and other sources will be utilized with limited field
verification.
4. Determine historic and current land use. Identify land use classification in acres (see
NHCP).
5. Establish air quality conditions. (Based on readily available information. Air quality
testing should not be required).
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6. Identify water quality conditions in terms of designated uses. (Based on readily
available information. Water quality testing should not be required).
7. Identify highly erodible cropland.
8. Characterize the floodplain impacted by any alternative upstream and downstream of
the project area.
9. Characterize fish and wildlife habitat and generally describe species composition
(sampling usually not required).
10. Identify Threatened and Endangered Species population(s), including State listed species
in the project area.
11. Characterize federally listed Threatened and Endangered critical habitat as well as that
related to State listed species.
12. Conduct a Phase I Bog Turtle investigation on all potential project sites.
13. Characterize “Invasive Species” populations.
14. Characterize water quantity concerns.
15. Determine the topography of the project area.
16. Determine the climate of the project area.
17. Identify/characterize riparian areas.
18. Identify natural areas. (Specially designated areas).
B. Deliverable items include the appropriate completed portions of the NRCS-CPA-52 and the
written portions for the appropriate sections of the Plan-ED and data sources for Appendix
D of the plan; maps in paper and PDF versions, as part of the Project Folder; and ESRI
shapefiles of resources that were mapped.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. As needed.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 3-1, Resource Inventories and Watershed Assessment: The A-E will provide electronic files
to the CO as outlined in Section L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. Federal and
State requirements will require that the findings from the RIWA be shared with other
appropriate agencies. Comments from SLO staff and other agencies will be provided to the CO in
as timely a fashion as possible. The CO will subsequently furnish all review comments on the
Resource Inventories and Watershed Assessment to the A-E within 14 days of receiving the
document.
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The A-E must make all necessary corrections to the work and will document the responses and
actions taken as a result of the CO’s review comments. The documented responses must be
submitted with the final submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of item Resource Inventories and Watershed Assessment will be
made by the CO after all corrections are made and all required material has been submitted.
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3-3 Economic and Social Assessment
I. Scope
The Economic and Social Assessment should at a minimum identify the infrastructure,
demographic, health and safety and economic conditions and needs within the project area. An
outline of many of the items to be assessed is provided in NWPH.
The work may include, but is not limited to, conducting the resource inventories of the
watershed by collecting information on the economic, and social that could be impacted by the
project. Inventories will be adequate to establish economic and social baseline conditions which
are linked to environmental laws, Executive Orders, Codified Federal Rules, scoping issues,
and/or USDA-NRCS policy. All study/inventory should be commensurate to the level of concern
associated with the resource. Results of the scoping process should be used to determine
relevance:
• Floodwater damage (roads, bridges, utilities, land, buildings) including depths and
economics
• Public health & safety (including emergency services)
• Water-based recreation
A. Environmental (refer to NRCS-CPA-52)
1. Social
a. Document current watershed demographics (population, income, and poverty)
which is to include an identification of any Environmental Justice Communities and
Tribal communities.
b. Characterize public health and safety conditions.
c. Characterize commercial and residential structures affected and to what extent.
d. Characterize transportation networks and conditions.
e. Identify social/political factors that may impact land use in for the life of the project.
f. Identify any population centers.
2. Economic
a. Quantify current on-site and off-site damages/effects (amount, extent, duration).
i. Urban flood/sediment damages such as houses, commercial buildings, roads,
bridges, rail, and utility damage.
ii. Ag flood damages/sediment such as crops, farm structures, and other rural
infrastructure damage.
iii. Water Supply effects and costs for the most likely alternative without PL 83-566
assistance, if applicable.
iv. Recreation analysis to include documenting current primary and secondary
contact recreation user days by recreation activity, if applicable.
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b. Quantify enterprise input costs.
c. Quantify current productivity.
d. Quantify operations, maintenance and replacement costs.
B. Deliverable items include the appropriate completed portions of the NRCS-CPA-52 and the
written portions for the appropriate sections of the Plan-ED and data sources for Appendix
D of the plan; maps in paper and PDF versions, as part of the Project Folder; and ESRI
shapefiles of resources that were mapped.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. As needed.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 3-2, Economic and Social Assessment: The A-E will provide electronic files to the CO as
outlined in Section L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. The CO will furnish review
comments on the Economic and Social Assessment to the A-E within 14 days of receiving the
document. The A-E must make all necessary corrections to the work and will document the
responses and actions taken as a result of the CO’s review comments. The documented
responses must be submitted with the final submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of item Economic and Social Assessment will be made by the CO
after all corrections are made and all required material has been submitted.
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3-4 Archeological and Historic Assessment
I. Scope
The A-E should work with SLO, USDA-NRCS and the State Historic Preservation Office to
determine the required Archeological and Historic Assessment needs for the potential project
areas.
A. A Phase 1A cultural resource investigation shall be conducted to determine the presences of
any historic structures within the potential project areas. The Pennsylvania History and
Museum Commission – State Historic Preservation Office’s CRGIS web application shall be
consulted to determine the probability and presence of any archaeological sites that may be
affected by the potential project.
B. Deliverable items include the appropriate completed portions of the NRCS-CPA-52 the
written portions for the appropriate sections of the Plan-ED and data sources for Appendix
D of the plan; maps in paper and PDF versions, as part of the Project Folder; and ESRI
shapefiles of resources that were mapped.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. As needed
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 3-3, Archeological and Historic Assessment: The A-E will provide electronic files to the CO
as outlined in Section L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. Federal and State
requirements will require that the findings from the Archeological and Historic Assessment be
shared with other appropriate agencies. Comments from SLO staff and other agencies will be
provided to the CO in as timely a fashion as possible. The CO will subsequently furnish all review
comments on the Archeological and Historic Assessment to the A-E within 14 days of receiving
the document. The A-E must make all necessary corrections to the work and will document the
responses and actions taken as a result of the CO’s review comments. The documented
responses must be submitted with the final submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of item Archeological and Historic Assessment will be made by
the CO after all corrections are made and all required material has been submitted.
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3-5 Soils and Engineering Assessment
I. Prepare a Soils and Engineering Assessment for the potential project sites based on available
remote sensing, data from Web Soil Survey, and any testing completed. Depth to water table,
leaching potential, USCS classification of soil horizons, hydric soils, hydrologic soil group,
permeability depth to bedrock/refusal, and suitable usage for a detention storage, need for fill
material, erodibility, presence of karst materials, etc., should be addressed.
A. Deliverable items include the appropriate completed portions of the NRCS-CPA-52 and the
written portions for the appropriate sections of the Plan-ED and data sources for Appendix
D of the plan; maps in paper and PDF versions, as part of the Project Folder; and ESRI
shapefiles of resources that were mapped.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. Conference #8, Phase 3, Inventory Resources.
Timing – After all Inventory Resources assessments have been completed.
Location – Teleconference.
Topics – Findings from the Resource Inventories and Watershed Assessment, the Economic
and Social Assessment, the Archaeological and Historic assessment, the Soils and
Engineering Assessment. Comparison of new information to original planning
information.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 3-4, Geologic and Engineering Assessment: The A-E will provide electronic files to the CO as
outlined in Section L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. The CO will furnish review
comments on the Geologic and Engineering Assessment to the A-E within 14 days of receiving
the document. The A-E must make all necessary corrections to the work and will document the
responses and actions taken as a result of the CO’s review comments. The documented
responses must be submitted with the final submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of item Geologic and Engineering Assessment will be made by the
CO after all corrections are made and all required material has been submitted.
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4-1 Analyze Resource Data
I. Scope
The A-E will analyze collected resource information through statistics, maps and other analytical
techniques and tools. An analysis of all initial alternatives including the future without project
condition will be compiled as an Initial Alternatives Report.
A. Hydrology and hydraulics (H&H) models will be developed as appropriate.
H&H models shall be calibrated to historical events and validated using other historical
events (given availability of data). Discuss all input parameters and assumptions in final
deliverables.
1. Develop H&H model input data
a. Delineate drainage area of watershed based on best available mapping/LiDAR data
including any necessary field inspections.
b. Quantify current and future land uses using NEH Part 630, Chapter 8 and Chapter 9
and create maps to be incorporated into the Plan-ED.
• Land uses within the watershed’s drainage areas shall be mapped manually
based on the most recent relative aerial photography and other sources.
• Land use for the remaining watershed areas shall be based upon the most
recent land use/land cover mapping available from the National Land Cover
Database (NCLD) available through the Multi-Resolution Land Characteristics
Consortium or other sources approved by the COR and revised to USDA-NRCS
land use classes in NEH Part 630, Ch. 8 & Ch. 9.
• Land uses shall be identified for the fully-developed condition based on current
development and available forecast information from local planning
commissions and based on regional other environmental and social limitations
through the life of the project. Provide GIS based maps showing future land use
coverage.
c. Develop NRCS weighted Curve Numbers with Antecedent Runoff Condition II (ARC II)
for existing-conditions and future-conditions land use with most recent USDA-NRCS
Hydrologic Soil Groups
d. Acquire precipitation data (NRCS-PA EFH2 Supplement, NEH Part 630 Chapter 21 &
NOAA Atlas 14) as appropriate for the project.
e. Compute times of concentration (Tc) for existing and future conditions for major sub-
basins within the watershed, as needed to develop tributary hydrographs to account
for hydrograph timing effects when routing steady hydraulic models. Note however
that steady discharge assumptions, such as base flow, may be made if justified.
f. Deliverable items include the above-mentioned maps and written analyses for the
appropriate sections of the Plan-ED. Electronic input and output files in their native
formats for all models and ESRI Shapefiles of the flood pool inundation areas shall be
delivered as part of the Project Folder.
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2. Hydrology and Hydraulics – Frequency-based Flood Routings
This activity includes routing floods to determine flood impacts upstream and
downstream for the purpose of informing the STC, Sponsors, local jurisdictions, and
affected land users of flooding conditions so that the STC in consultation with those
stakeholders can determine the purpose and needs of the project; and for the purpose
of identifying, formulating and evaluating alternatives for Phase 5. This activity will
include:
a. Routing unsteady 24-hour-duration 1-, 2-, 5-, 10-, 25-, 50-, 100-, 200- and 500-year
recurrence-interval floods and evaluating urban flood damages for the future build-
out condition. The flood routings will be terminated at the furthest point
downstream where all alternatives have no more discernible impact than that of the
worst-case flood condition, the dam non-existent condition.
b. Routing unsteady 24-hour-duration 1-, 2-, 5-, 10-, 25-, 50-, 100-, 200- and 500-year
recurrence-interval floods and evaluating agricultural flood damages for the future
build-out condition. The flood routings will be terminated at the furthest point
downstream where all alternatives have no more discernible impact than that of the
worst-case flood condition, the dam non-existent condition.
c. Hydrographs developed for the above hydraulic routings will be based on NOAA
Atlas 14 precipitation values and the appropriate storm distributions developed by
the USDA-NRCS.
d. Hydraulic routings will use the HEC-RAS computer program in steady or unsteady
mode and 1-D or 2-D as appropriate. HEC-RAS models shall be created based on the
best and most current maps and data available from USDA-NRCS-PA, FEMA,
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, etc., or be developed from the most
recent high-resolution LiDAR data and/or additional field surveys. If a Flood
Insurance Study (FIS) exists downstream of the dam, the hydraulic model will be
obtained from FEMA and consideration given to using that model for these required
routings.
e. Flood inundation maps for all recurrences and conditions will be developed in reach
lengths that present a useful visual scale for identifying features including buildings,
roads and critical facilities to assist determination of the purpose and need for flood
prevention/protection.
f. Deliverable items include flood inundation maps and written narrative for the
appropriate sections of the Plan-ED. Electronic input and output files for all models
and ESRI Shapefiles of the flood inundation areas shall be delivered as part of the
Project Folder.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. Conference #9, Phase 4 Analyze Resource Data.
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Timing – After all Resource Data assessments have been completed.
Location –Teleconference.
Topics – Findings from the Frequency-based Flood Routings
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 4-1, Analyze Resource Data: The A-E will provide electronic files to the CO as outlined
in Section L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. The CO will furnish review
comments on the Initial Alternatives Report to the A-E within 14days of receiving the
document. The A-E must make all necessary corrections to the work and will document the
responses and actions taken as a result of the CO’s review comments. The documented
responses must be submitted with the final submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of item Initial Alternatives Report will be made by the CO
after all corrections are made and all required material has been submitted.
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5-1 Formulate Alternatives
I. Scope
A. The A-E will formulate reasonable alternatives based on the analysis of collected resource
information. The completeness, effectiveness, efficiency and acceptability of each feasible
alternative will be documented considering permits, project cost and required mitigation.
All reasonable alternatives that address the purpose and need for action must be presented,
including those not within the program authority of USDA-NRCS and those not preferred by
the sponsors. All federally assisted alternatives are to be developed to address the purpose
and need of the project. Direct, indirect, and cumulative effects should be identified, and
the narrative information should be presented in a summary form using supplemental
tables, drawings, maps, and other graphics. Additionally, in accordance with PR&G and/or
USDA-NRCS regulation and policy, the following alternatives shall be identified:
1. NEPA No Action (PR&G Future Without Federal Investment (FWOFI)) – this alternative
shall be the most likely future condition identified in coordination with the SLO and
USDA-NRCS. The alternative reflects the continuation of land use and land development
in the watershed with no project undertaken to address flooding, sediment, or
floodplain rehabilitation.
2. Sponsor’s Alternative – the Sponsor’s alternative shall be evaluated if different from the
alternatives above.
3. Non-structural and structural – this alternative may involve removal/stabilization of
existing legacy sediment and restoration of the floodplain. This may also stream
restoration, riparian corridor improvement, and restoration of green space. Non-
structural alternatives may involve removing, relocating, or flood proofing structures
within the flood inundation area and includes estimated costs for flood proofing,
relocation, property acquisition, demolition, decommissioning utilities, septic, wells and
similar facilities and site stabilization/restoration, or a combination of non-structural and
structural measures.
All relevant public and USDA-NRCS identified resource concerns noted during scoping must
be addressed by one or more alternatives and analyzed in the Plan-ED.
B. The A-E will document the rationale for alternatives considered but eliminated from
detailed study.
C. Deliverable items include the written analyses for the appropriate sections of the Plan-ED.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. Conference #10, Phase 5, Formulate Alternatives.
Timing – After the A-E develops a list of initial alternatives.
Location – Teleconference.
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Sponsor Role – Present for discussion.
Topics – Review Initial Alternatives Report and discuss any initial alternatives that may
eventually be carried forward.
III. Review and acceptance of work
There will be no review segment for Item 5-1.
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6-1 Summary and Comparison of Alternatives along with needed permits and mitigation requirements
I. Scope
Reasonable alternatives should be evaluated and impacts should be described for each
alternative. In addition, a no-action alternative describing the most likely action by others
without federal assistance must be developed.
A. Alternatives will be described and compared in substantial and equal detail. The following
will be performed for alternatives identified in Phase 5 Formulate Alternatives, which are to
be studied in detail:
1. Engineering Analyses of Alternatives
a. Conceptual/preliminary sketches and associated information showing existing and
proposed features of the alternatives including borrow, spoil, and staging areas and
including the preparation of refined cost estimates for installation, operation and
maintenance, and cost sharing.
b. The models and maps from Phase 4 shall be used and updated to evaluate these
alternatives for future land use and Tc conditions. All models and maps from Phase
4 shall be updated to reflect the analyzed alternatives. The H&H evaluation should
culminate in a technically sound and cost-effective solution for the alternatives that
are evaluated in detail.
c. Preliminary structural analyses shall be conducted for the alternatives.
d. Develop cost estimates for each feasible alternative.
e. Deliverable items include the written analyses for the appropriate sections of the
Plan-ED and updated maps and models for the Project Folder as described in Phase
1.
2. Environmental and Social Effects and Economic Analysis of Alternatives
a. Evaluate effects of the alternatives for all resources and concerns identified during
the scoping process and complete the Environmental Evaluation Worksheet (NRCS-
CPA-52). Principles, Requirements, and Interagency Guidelines for Water Resource
Projects (PR&G) are to be followed. Also addressing concerns included in the
National Watershed Program Manual, section 501.24 B (Scoping).
b. Identify, generally locate utilities within or affected by the possible construction
areas and prepare a map. Use call before you dig service, town files, site
inspection, and other records.
c. Conduct wetland determinations and delineations and develop maps for wetlands
that would be impacted by the project. This may include areas within the riparian
corridor, and areas potentially impacted by construction activities (construction
access roads, etc.).
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Current USACE methodology and/or Pennsylvania methods and requirements (as
applicable) will be utilized. Wetland determinations do not need to be flagged or
surveyed in the field for the rehab Plan-ED.
d. Complete an economic analysis of each alternative according to the requirements
of the National Watershed Program Manual, the Principles, Requirements, and
Interagency Guidelines for Water Resource Projects (PR&G) and the National
Resource Economics Handbook part 611 – Water Resource Handbook for
Economics and procedures applicable to monetary economic analysis contained in
Chapter 2 of Economic and Environmental Principles and Guidelines for Water and
Related Land Resources Implementation Studies (P&G).
i. Determine the economic benefits and costs of each fully evaluated alternative,
including the Future Without Project alternative, and as needed for other
alternatives considered. Evaluate costs associated with the alternative and
benefits retained, lost or added in the alternatives.
ii. Economic evaluations will be conducted using the current Federal Watershed
Project Discount Rate. The rate changes in October of each year and can be
found at
http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/technical/eco n/.
iii. Determine the most appropriate project period of analysis (evaluation life plus
implementation period) must be for the time over which any alternative has
significant beneficial or adverse effects, not to exceed 100 years.
iv. Formulate project based on the principles outlined in the USDA-NRCS NWPM
(In particular, Parts 501.11 A (2); 501.12. C; 505.35 B (1) (iii)-(iv); 505.35 E-F).
v. Determine average annual values for all costs and benefits associated with
each evaluated alternative.
vi. Determine net monetary benefits and benefit/cost ratios for all with project
alternatives (Future With Federal Investment under PR&G) as compared to the
no action (Future Without Federal Investment).
vii. Develop an Economic Section for Appendix D: Investigation and Analysis that
details the methods, assumptions, and data to support the economics analysis
and results. Further, disclose any monetizable benefits that were not
evaluated along with the rationale for not developing the values. As part of
this section disclose how not developing these monetized benefits will not
affect the identification of the correct NEE plan
viii. Complete all required economic and structural tables per the NWPM Section
506, Subpart B and NWPH Section 606, Subpart B
e. The preferred alternative will be identified as the reasonable alternative that
maximizes net public benefits to society. Identification of the tentative Preferred
Alternative and other identifications per PR&G for water resource projects will
include:
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i. Identify the alternative that meets technical requirements and best addresses
the environmental, social, and economic concerns for the construction of the
alternative, which is the one that maximizes public benefits relative to cost, as
the Preferred Alternative.
ii. Work with Sponsors to determine the Sponsor Preferred Alternative.
iii. Work with the SLO and USDA-USDA-NRCS to identify the Non-Structural
alternative, if it exists, that best meets the federal objectives and Guiding
Principles of PR&G. The non-structural alternative is to be a reasonable
alternative which will contain nonstructural works and may contain structural
works.
iv. Work with the SLO and USDA-NRCS to identify the Environmentally Preferred
alternative if the environmental document is an EIS.
v. Work with SLO and USDA-NRCS to identify the NEE alternative. Use this
alternative as a basis for comparison of other federally assisted alternatives to
highlight their environmental and social trade-offs.
vi. Develop a Summary and Comparison Table (NRCS NWPM Part 501.37D) to
summarize the trade-offs of monetary and non-monetary benefits and costs of
all alternatives. The analysis will include comparison of alternatives relative
the PR&G federal objectives, and guiding principles, monetary and non-
monetary effects using an ecosystem services framework, and trade-offs of
monetary and non-monetary effects among alternatives.
vii. The preferred alternative will be described along with rationale for the
preference. Economic and structural tables will be prepared.
f. Deliverable items include completion of the appropriate sections of the NRCS-CPA-
52, written narratives for all alternatives for the appropriate sections of the Plan-
ED, cost estimates, and preliminary drawings for all alternatives studied in detail,
upstream and downstream floodplain inundation maps for the frequency-based
floods modeled for each alternative studied in detail, economic and structural
tables for the preferred alternative.
g. Ensure compliance with all Federal, State, and local laws and regulations.
3. Identify Expected Permits and Mitigation
a. A-E will identify and list expected permits required for the project.
b. A-E will identify likely compensatory mitigation based on coordination with federal
regulatory agencies such as U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers
c. The deliverable for this item shall be a list of expected permits and mitigation
requirement included in the plan as well as completion of the appropriate sections
of the NRCS-CPA-52.
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4. Identification of the tentative Preferred Alternative and NEE alternative for water
resource and land treatment projects
a. Identify the NEE Alternative that best addresses the technical, environmental,
social, and economic concerns for this watershed project. The NEE is the alternative
which maximizes net economic benefits consistent with protecting the Nation's
environment.
b. Deliverable items include the written analyses for the appropriate sections of the
Plan-ED.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. Conference #11, Phase 6, Item 6-1, Summary and Comparison of Alternatives along with
needed permits and mitigation requirements.
Timing – After the A-E develops the Summary and Comparison of Alternatives table and the
Environmental Consequences narrative.
Location – Onsite
Sponsor Role – Present for discussion.
Topics – Walk proposed project site with agencies that may require permits/mitigation.
Discuss alternatives and possible permitting/mitigation that may be required.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 6-1, Summary and Comparison of Alternatives along with needed permits and mitigation
requirements: The A-E will provide electronic files to the CO as outlined in Section L - FORMAT
FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. The CO will furnish review comments on the Summary and
Comparison of Alternatives table and the Environmental Consequences narrative to the A-E
within 14 days of receiving the documents. The A-E must make all necessary corrections to the
work and will document the responses and actions taken as a result of the CO’s review
comments. The documented responses must be submitted with the final submittals for this
item.
Final approval and acceptance of the Summary and Comparison of Alternatives table and the
Environmental Consequences narrative will be made by the CO after all corrections are made
and all required material has been submitted.
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7-1 Compare and Review Alternatives with Sponsor
I. Scope
Information will be provided to the sponsor regarding the National Economic Efficiency
(NEE), Environmental Quality (EQ), Other Social Effects (OSE), and Regional Economic
Development(RED) accounts. The accounts and the alternatives they represent will be
presented to the sponsor.
A. Work with Sponsors and USDA-NRCS to determine the Preferred Alternative. If the
Preferred Alternative is different than the NEE alternative, then the Sponsors will need
to pursue an exception from the Chief of USDA-NRCS.
Deliverable items include the written analyses for the appropriate sections of the Plan-
ED.
B. Conceptual Design (of the Preferred Alternative)
1. The A-E shall prepare sufficient data for the Preliminary Review to adequately
convey the design approach and methods.
2. The A-E shall prepare and submit preliminary drawings using Tabloid (11” x 17”)
paper and the USDA-NRCS-PA CAD Template; and a digital copy of the design folder
to the COR for the Final Design/Peer Review.
3. Conceptual Drawings
The drawings shall consist of:
a. A cover sheet.
b. Overall site maps.
c. Detailed site maps.
d. Plans, profiles, elevations, cross sections, and details needed to describe the
work to be constructed.
e. Plans, profiles, and graphical descriptions of bore holes of geologic
investigations.
f. Conceptual (to-scale) structural drawings.
4. Preliminary Design Folder
The preliminary design folder(s) shall collect, organize, and summarize the
calculations and results from the other subsidiary items. Additional calculations
should not be needed. It will contain at a minimum the information sections listed
in the USDA-NRCS NEM Subpart B, Documentation, 511.11 Design Folders. A
partial list of design folder sections consists of design notes and computations
pertinent to this subsidiary item of the work including correspondence, flood
routings, soils reports, soil mechanics testing reports (if applicable), hydrology and
hydraulics, bank slope stability, foundation and structural design computations (if
appropriate), and a list of applicable USDA-NRCS Specifications and Standard
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Drawings required. The folder shall include a detailed design report to explain the
design assumptions, methodology, and references used for each design
component and or consideration. Drawings that are necessary for proper
explanation of the subject matter shall be reproduced to 11 inches on the binding
edge and shall be included in the folder. The folder shall be partitioned and
indexed in a logical manner.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. Conference #13, Phase 7, Item 7-1, Compare and Review Alternatives with Sponsor.
Timing – After the A-E develops the NEE, EQ, OSE and RED account information.
Location – Teleconference
Sponsor Role – Present for discussion.
Topics – Review of accounts and alternatives, the SLO will select the preferred alternative.
III. Review and acceptance of work
There will be no review segment for Item 7-1.
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7-2 Prepare Draft Environmental Document
I. Scope
The A-E will prepare the environmental document as outlined in USDA-NRCS, PR&G and NEPA
policy. The appropriate sections of the NRCS NWPM and NWPH will be used as format and
content guidance.
The NRCS-CPA-52 will also be finalized.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. Conference #14, Phase 7, Item 7-2, Prepare Draft Environmental Document
Timing – After the A-E receives draft environmental documents comments from the CO.
Location – Teleconference
Topics – Review comments for draft environmental document.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 7-2, Prepare Draft Environmental Document: The A-E will provide electronic files to the CO
as outlined in Section L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. The CO will furnish
review comments on the Draft Environmental Document to the A-E within 14 days of receiving
the documents. The A-E must make all necessary corrections to the work and will document the
responses and actions taken as a result of the CO’s review comments. The documented
responses must be submitted with the final submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of the Draft Environmental Document will be made by the CO
after all corrections are made and all required material has been submitted.
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8-1 Response to USDA-NRCS – National Water Management Center and SLO review
I. Scope
The A-E will address comments on the environmental document made by the USDA-NRCS
National Water Management Center and SLO.
A. The NWMC will provide draft comments and concerns to SLO and USDA-NRCS-PA. The A-E
will have the opportunity to comment on these draft comments before final NWMC
Comments and Concerns are provided to the USDA-NRCS State Conservationist. The A-E
must respond, in writing, to each of the final comments and make required changes in the
Plan-ED. The NWMC Concerns will be reviewed and addressed by the A-E in writing.
B. The deliverables are the written response to the final NWMC comments incorporated into
the draft document and also in a separate stand-alone document submitted to USDA-
NRCS.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. Conference #15, Phase 8, Item 8-1, Response to USDA-NRCS – National Water Management
Center and SLO review.
Timing – After the A-E receives draft environmental documents comments from the CO.
Location – At site or by teleconference
Topics – Review comments for draft environmental document made by the USDA-NRCS –
National Water Management Center.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 8-1, USDA-NRCS – National Water Management Center comments: The A-E will provide
electronic files to the CO as outlined in Section L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC
DATA. The CO will furnish review comments on the Draft Environmental Document to the A-
E within 45 days of receiving the documents. The A-E must make all necessary corrections to
the work and will document the responses and actions taken as a result of the CO’s review
comments. The documented responses must be submitted with the final submittals for this
item.
Final approval and acceptance of the Draft Environmental Document will be made by the CO
after all corrections are made and all required material has been submitted.
Chiques Creek Watershed Plan and Environmental Document
Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 34 of 36 June 23, 2020
8-2 Response to Participating and Cooperating Agencies and other interested parties’ comments
I. Scope
The A-E will address comments on the environmental document made by participating and
cooperating agencies and other interested parties.
A. Prepare Draft Plan-ED, incorporating comments from NWMC and provide to SLO and
USDA-NRCS-PA and the Sponsor for review and concurrence.
B. The A-E will facilitate a public and interagency review of the Draft Plan-ED as appropriate
in accordance with the PPP.
C. The A-E will provide specific and summary responses to public and interagency comments
in Appendix A of the Plan-ED (NWPM 501.45A and NWPH 601.45A).
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. As needed.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 8-2, Review and Draft Environmental Document: The A-E will provide electronic files to the
CO as outlined in Section L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. The CO will furnish
review comments on the Draft Environmental Document to the A-E within 60 days of receiving
the documents. The A-E must make all necessary corrections to the work and will document the
responses and actions taken as a result of the CO’s review comments. The documented
responses must be submitted with the final submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of the Draft Environmental Document will be made by the CO
after all corrections are made and all required material has been submitted.
Chiques Creek Watershed Plan and Environmental Document
Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 35 of 36 June 23, 2020
8-3 Response to USDA-NRCS – National Head Quarters Administrative review
I. Scope
The A-E will address comments on the final environmental document made during the USDA-
NRCS National Programmatic Review.
A. Prepare revised Plan-ED and provide to SLO and USDA-NRCS-PA for USDA-NRCS
Programmatic review and concurrence, typically a 30-day review. The USDA-NRCS
Programmatic Concerns will be reviewed and addressed by the A-E.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. As needed.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 8-3, USDA-NRCS – National Programmatic review: The A-E will provide electronic files to
the CO as outlined in Section L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. The CO will
furnish review comments on the Final Environmental Document to the A-E within 45 days of
receiving the documents. The A-E must make all necessary corrections to the work and will
document the responses and actions taken as a result of the CO’s review comments. The
documented responses must be submitted with the final submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of the Final Environmental Document will be made by the CO
after all corrections are made and all required material has been submitted.
Chiques Creek Watershed Plan and Environmental Document
Attachment 2 – Technical Specifications Page 36 of 36 June 23, 2020
8-4 Complete Plan-ED
I. Scope
Provide electronic and hard copies of the final Plan-ED.
II. Conferences
Meetings between the A-E and the CO for the subject work must be in accordance with Section
G - MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES:
A. As needed.
III. Review and acceptance of work
Item 8-4, Complete Plan-ED - The A-E will provide electronic files to the CO as outlined in Section
L - FORMAT FOR SUBMITTED ELECTRONIC DATA. The CO will furnish review comments on the
Complete Plan-ED to the A-E within 14 days of receiving the document. The A-E must make all
necessary corrections to the work and will document the responses and actions taken as a result
of the CO’s review comments. The documented responses must be submitted with the final
submittals for this item.
Final approval and acceptance of the work will be made by the CO and concurred upon by the
Sponsor after all corrections are made and all required material has been submitted. The
required submittals are:
A. PDF of the final Complete Watershed Plan-ED.
B. All supporting files used in the development of the Watershed Plan-ED.
Upon notification that all of the Plan-ED corrections have been made and accepted, the A-E
must also furnish twenty-five (25) original printed copies of the final Plan-ED. The A-E will also
prepare two bound copy and five thumb drives of all supporting documents, reports, analysis
and findings used to create the Plan-ED, including both the input data and output results for any
computer analyses performed.